New cytokine: stromal derived factor-1

Eur J Gynaecol Oncol. 2009;30(2):124-7.

Abstract

Cytokines are proteins which regulate and control the basic functions of cells, including proliferation, differentiation and migration by auto- and paracrine communication. Chemokines are a family of proinflammatory chemotactic cytokines. Chemokines play a significant role in many physiological and pathological processes. Chemokines usually join many receptors, and the same receptors can join many different chemokines. SDF-1 works by its receptor CXCR4. The SDF-1+CXCR4 complex plays a significant role in the creation of metastases of neoplasms and as a response to cytostatic treatment. Identification of this complex may be a useful prognostic factor in the therapy of many types of carcinoma. The ability to block CXCR4 indicates the existence of new targets in breast or ovarian carcinoma treatment as well as in cases of cervical adenocarcinoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chemokine CXCL12 / classification
  • Chemokine CXCL12 / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / physiopathology
  • Receptors, CXCR4 / classification
  • Receptors, CXCR4 / physiology

Substances

  • Chemokine CXCL12
  • Receptors, CXCR4